Barbados Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

A wide selection

First time visitors to Barbados are often surprised at the wide range of imported groceries on our supermarket shelves. In fact Barbados imports much of its food supply. Most products are imported from the USA, Canada and the Caribbean. Some British brands are also available locally.

Due to shipping costs, import duties and taxes the cost of imported products is typically higher than you pay at home. If you'll be in Barbados for several weeks consider bringing some non-perishable items with you.

Local products

If you are staying at self-catering accommodation and have a chance to cook, do try some local dishes. Fresh grilled fish is delicious and the supermarkets have a wide range of fish to choose from - popular choices are flying fish, marlin, mahi mahi and tuna. For starch, try local sweet potatoes. Pair these with delicious fresh veggies, like carrots and squash, for a great meal.

In addition to fish, Barbados also offers excellent fresh pork and chicken. Beef, lamb, shrimp and other seafood are readily available.

Barbadians love sweets! You should give some of our local confectionery a try, such as sugar cakes, tamarind balls and coconut bread. There is even a local chocolate factory - Agapey.

Popular supermarkets

There are several Barbados chains of supermarkets, with the largest being Super Centre. There is also TriMart, Carlton/Emerald City and Jordans. These supermarkets are always well stocked. Several also have a bakery and deli serving freshly baked goods and delicious local dishes.

If you are staying on the south coast, choose from Super Centre Oistins, TriMart Worthing, Big B Supermarket and JBs Supermarket.

On the west coast, Super Centre Holetown offers the best selection while Jordans in Fitts Village is more affordable.

If you're staying in St.Philip, say at The Crane, then Emerald City is the closest.

Most larger supermarkets accept any currency cash as well as credit and debit cards. If using a debit or credit card, you may be required to present a photo ID.

Convenience Stores and Mini Marts

In addition to the larger supermarkets, there are many smaller convenience stores especially in popular tourist areas such as St.Lawrence Gap and Holetown. The selection is not as wide and the prices may be higher than the grocery stores but they are a convenient option especially if you're doing limited shopping for snacks, etc.

Markets

There are several fish markets across the island where vendors will be happy to help you make a selection from a range of freshly caught fish.

Farmers markets are held weekly across the island with some of the most popular ones being Brighton Farmers Market and Hastings Farmers Market. Check the What's On In Barbados calendar to see when they're scheduled. In addition to local fruits and vegetables there is also excellent art and crafts for sale at these markets.